Feature

ePub3 @ $.80/page

Accessible ePub3 @$.90/page

Semantic Structure

Relies on standard HTML semantics.

Emphasizes proper semantic tagging, such as headings, lists, tables, etc., to enhance accessibility.

Navigation

Basic linear reading order and basic navigation elements (e.g., TOC).

Improved navigation with landmarks, page lists, and navigation tables for easier content navigation by assistive technologies.

Image Descriptions

Alt text for images can be provided, but it may be limited or missing.

Requires comprehensive and accurate image descriptions (alt text) to provide context and information for non-text content.

Tables

Standard HTML tables can be used.

Requires proper table markup, including table headers and captions, to improve accessibility for screen readers.

Forms

Standard HTML form elements.

Requires well-structured forms with properly associated labels and instructions.

MathML

Supported but not always utilized.

Encourages the use of MathML for mathematical equations and formulas.

ARIA

Limited use of ARIA attributes.

Utilizes ARIA attributes for improved accessibility, like ARIA landmarks and roles.

Text-to-Speech (TTS) Support

Basic TTS functionality is available.

Enhanced TTS support with better synchronization and handling of reading order.

Text Resize

May or may not support dynamic text resizing.

Should support dynamic text resizing without loss of content or functionality.

Language and Spelling Assistance

Relies on external tools and browser support.

Provides built-in language and spelling assistance features.

Media Overlays (audiobooks)

Supported through external applications.

Incorporates built-in support for media overlays, making audiobooks more accessible.

Metadata for Accessibility

Limited focus on accessibility metadata.

Extends metadata support to provide specific accessibility information, like text-to-speech settings and accessibility features.

Reading Order Control

Reading order may not be explicitly defined.

Allows for explicit reading order control through proper markup and techniques.

Text Adaptation

Limited control over text presentation.

Allows users to adapt text presentation to suit their needs (e.g., change font, size, color).

Text-to-Speech (TTS) Control

Basic control over TTS settings, if supported by the reading system.

Provides better control over TTS settings, like voice selection and speed.

Multimedia Support

Allows embedding of audio, video, and interactive elements.

Encourages providing alternatives and ensuring compatibility with assistive technologies.

Scripting

Supports JavaScript for creating interactive and dynamic content.

Encourages using scripting responsibly, ensuring accessibility is not compromised.

Standards Compliance

Complies with EPUB3 standard.

Aligns with accessibility standards like WCAG, aiming for broader compliance.

Certification Initiatives

No specific certification initiatives.

Organizations like Benetech Global Certified Accessible (GCA) may offer certification programs (e.g., Global Certified Accessible Program).

Ongoing Development

EPUB3 standard development continues.

Accessibility features may be refined based on evolving standards and user needs.